A kitchen can look finished without a backsplash, and sometimes a clean coat of (washable) paint is what best executes a design. But at the same time, there’s also an opportunity to use the space to anchor the overall design of the room.

However, the key to using tin successfully is moderation. Since the designs imprinted on the finish are often very detailed, too much of this material can feel overwhelming to the eye. For best results, treat tin like a focal point. Use it in places where you’ll want to draw extra attention — behind a high-end stove, or over a wide sink.

Glass backsplashes are quickly becoming more popular in kitchen design for a number of reasons: they’re inexpensive, modern, low maintenance and easy to customize. Glass offers a seamless, uninterrupted surface that has the added bonus of reflecting light, which helps to brighten up the room.